Site chosen because of 'feng shui' factor

GEORGE TOWN: The proposed offshore development project is meant to overcome the shortage of industrial land on the island, particularly where land reclamation is out of the question, said project consultant Nik Zamri Majid.

"After much thought, we recommended that concrete decks be constructed instead of reclaiming land. With the construction on stilts, a lot of problems would be resolved," he said.

"They include environmental damage to the mangroves and fishing grounds because the sea would not be affected.

"We will avoid the mangrove forests and provide necessary fishing facilities to the fishing community."

Nik Zamri said the project was supposed to be kept "under wraps" although groundwork involving engagement with NGOs, the fishing communities in Balik Pulau and government departments were ongoing.

He said Balik Pulau was "the choice of industrialists from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea and Macau".

"We cannot reveal who the investors are yet but they chose this site due to its `feng shui' factor," he said.

"They wanted the project to be on the water because it was good for business."

Nik Zamri said RM5 million would be spent on a detailed environmental impact assessment (DEIA) and the stakeholders, NGOs and public would be invited to give their feedback during public consultation.

"We have to make sure that issues of environment and fisher folk are addressed to convince the people. This is a 'bottom-up' method of engaging with the people."

Read the rest here:
Site chosen because of 'feng shui' factor